INSPIRATION | ISAMU NOGUCHI
The life of Isamu NoguchiIsamu Noguchi (1904–1988) was one of the twentieth century’s most important and critically acclaimed sculptors. Through a lifetime of artistic experimentation, he created sculptures, gardens, furniture and lighting designs, ceramics, architecture, and set designs. His work, at once subtle and bold, traditional and modern, set a new standard for the reintegration of the arts.
Isamu Noguchi ©The Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum, New York / Artist Rights Society [ARS] – JASPAR. Photo by Jack Mitchell.
Akari Light Sculptures, Isamu Noguchi, 1951
Akari Light Sculptures by Isamu Noguchi are considered icons of 1950s modern design. Designed by Noguchi beginning in 1951 and handmade for a half century by the original manufacturer in Gifu, Japan, the paper lanterns are a harmonious blend of Japanese handcraft and modernist form.
The lamps are created from handmade washi paper and bamboo ribbing, supported by a metal frame.
FURNITURE | Noguchi Coffee Table
This classic table authorized by the Isamu Noguchi Foundation was originally created in 1944. The brilliantly simple design consists of only three elements, the glass top and two interlocking wood base pieces. The table is an extraordinary harmony of form and function. Made by the table’s original manufacturer, Herman Miller. The configuration of the Noguchi Table is a registered trademark of The Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum.
FURNITURE | Prismatic Table
The small Prismatic Table of 1957 was the last piece of furniture that Isamu Noguchi designed. This creation coincides with his sculptures of bent and folded aluminum from the late 1950s. The faceted aluminum piece was designed for Alcoa as part of their advertising “Forecast program” to explore new uses for aluminum. Noguchi designed two versions. This one was presented in advertisements of the time as modular and multicolored. This is the first time it has ever been put into production; manufactured by Vitra Design Museum
FURNITURE | Cyclone Table
The design for the Cyclone™ Table was first conceived by Isamu Noguchi in 1953 as a rocking stool of metal wire and wood for Knoll. At the suggestion of Hans Knoll, the playful object evolved into a side table that became a companion piece to Harry Bertoia’s wire chair for children. Reintroduced by Knoll in collaboration with the Noguchi Foundation, the table is once again available and produced to Noguchi’s original drawings.
PRINTS | Akari – Orange Sun
Design for Akari by Isamu Noguchi
Made in Japan
Screenprint on washi paper
PRINTS | Akari – Yellow Bowtie
Design for Akari by Isamu Noguchi
Made in Japan
Screenprint on washi paper
SCULPTURE | Skyviewing
1969
Skyviewing Sculpture, though a very modern looking piece, was created at the height of postmodern conceptual art in 1969, where the idea was central and formal components fell away from the sculpture. Noguchi was primarily focused on the unity of practicality and nature, creating a piece that marries these concepts in the public eye. Since it is an interactive piece for people to experience, there was no need for vibrant colors or chaotic patterns. Skyviewing Sculpture has clean lines and an effortless quality to it, embodying the minimalist movement and inviting us in for a peaceful moment to just look up.
PUBLICATIONS
I Become a Nisei collects an essay by Isamu Noguchi written from a prison camp for Japanese Americans in 1942, with a selection of artworks and documents from The Noguchi Museum Archives.
